The Tottenham and Brighton benches were involved in a heated touchline bust-up, resulting in both managers, Cristian Stellini and Roberto De Zerbi, being sent off by referee Stuart Attwell. The incident began before the match even started, with the two managers exchanging words on the touchline. Brighton boss De Zerbi was seen pointing a finger at Tottenham interim gaffer Stellini as they shook hands ahead of the game.
The drama continued on the pitch, with Lewis Dunk netting an equaliser after Son Heung-min had initially put the hosts in front. Sky Sports reported that De Zerbi celebrated in front of the Spurs bench when the Seagulls scored. Tempers then flared in the second half, with both managers sent off by ref Attwell following a touchline melee between the two dugouts.
According to football.london, it was Spurs fitness coach Stefano Bruno and members of the Brighton dugout that clashed in the second half. However, it was Stellini and De Zerbi who were sent off by the referee. The pair appeared to exchange words in the tunnel as they made their way off the pitch.
Speaking on the incident, Stellini told the BBC that he doesn’t like to be involved in fights or anything too aggressive. He said that he is quiet and focused on the game and tries to do his job. Stellini also emphasized that he is the manager of Tottenham and that is more important than anything else. He added that he is a friendly person and wants to enjoy football, and that he will be friendly with De Zerbi next time they see each other.
Meanwhile, De Zerbi told Match of the Day that he is used to respecting everyone and wants the same respect shown to him. On the pitch, Harry Kane scored the winner to seal a precious three points for Champions League-chasing Spurs after Dunk had equalised following Son’s opener.
In a dramatic start to the game, kick-off was momentarily delayed as the referee appeared to deal with a technical problem. Ref Stuart Attwell appeared to have issues with his microphone ahead of kick-off. The incident highlights the intense pressure that managers face in the high-stakes world of football, where emotions can run high and tempers can flare. However, it is important for all involved to maintain professionalism and respect for each other.